Driving

Some autistic people may find the skill of driving extremely difficult, whilst others will be highly competent. A diagnosis of autism or Asperger syndrome should not in itself be a barrier to holding a licence.

Learning to drive

observe traffic when you’re a passenger or watch videos that may help you to become more aware of the rules of the road and driving

take information about autism to discuss with your driving instructor before your first lesson, particularly if you have any sensory differences that can impact on your ability to learn eg problems with the glare from the sun or headlights.

Take your time over learning to drive and try to practice as often as you can.

Remember, whilst you may have difficulty with some things such as sequencing when you first learn to drive, this will soon become a routine. Autistic people are often good at remembering rules, so learning the Highway Code maybe something that comes more naturally to you than it would others.

The practical test

Although you have a disability, you will still have to take the same test as everyone else and be able to display the same ability. However, some drivers with disabilities may be allowed extra time for their test.

Dawn Larman at The Scottish Autism Services Network helped a member with Asperger syndrome to write a declaration of disability letter for their driving test.

You may want to use this as a template to be adapted to your specific diagnosis and needs:

Financial help with the cost of driving

If you receive the higher rate mobility component Personal Independence Payment (PIP), you are eligible to join the Motability scheme. This will mean that the higher rate mobility component of your PIP will be paid directly to Motability and you can lease or purchase a vehicle through the scheme in return.

What to do if you have an accident

If you have an accident, it is worth having written instructions in your car so that you can see what you need to do. It is also worth talking to your driving instructor about what is classed as an accident and when following actions would be appropriate.

Stop at the scene of the accident and switch off your car's engine. Put on your hazard lights. Be careful when leaving your car, being aware of other traffic.

Try to stay calm. Maybe take some slow, deep breaths or use whatever anxiety-reducing methods may work for you.

Call 999 immediately if anyone is injured, if the collision scene is dangerous or if someone involved leaves the scene without exchanging the details required by law. You may also want to call an appropriate adult who can help.

It’s useful to keep a disposable camera, pen and paper in your car so that you can make a sketch or take a photo of the accident scene. Remember to note street names, vehicle locations, collision points and any damage.

Get the names, addresses and vehicle registrations of any witnesses, including passengers in the other vehicle(s) involved.

Take down the registration number, make, model and colour of the other vehicle(s) involved in the accident. Drivers (including yourself) must then exchange their own details by law. This includes name, address, telephone number and insurance details (the name and address of each driver's insurance company, and insurance policy numbers if available).

If the other car involved is parked and its driver isn't there, you must leave a note with your details on the car, perhaps under the windscreen wiper.

You must then notify your insurance company of the accident.

Blue badge

The Blue Badge scheme gives people who have disabilities various concessions and privileges relating to parking. These include being able to park in disabled bays and on some single and double yellow lines, and fewer restrictions on parking time limits. Badge holders are also exempt from paying the London congestion charge.

The scheme operates in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland with the exception of a few London boroughs, who only partially recognise the scheme.

The Blue Badge Scheme also operates across Europe, and allows you to make use of the same concessions allowed for the residents of the country you are in. If you are planning to drive in another country, check the parking concessions for that country.

Who issues blue badges?

Though it is a national scheme, blue badges are actually issued by local authorities (councils), or in Northern Ireland by TransportNI. It is the local authority, who also decides on entitlement to the badges.

You can apply for a blue badge by completing an application form, which you get from your local authority online at:

Who is eligible for a blue badge?

Blue badges can be applied for on behalf of a person aged more than 2 years old. If you’re applying on behalf of your child, you’ll need to demonstrate that they will be the main beneficiary of the blue badge.

Appeals

If your application is unsuccessful the local authority should give you a detailed written explanation of the reasons why. The Department of Transport recommends that local authorities have a review/appeals procedure in place. If you think you have been incorrectly or unfairly refused a blue badge, you can ask for a review of the decision or use the council's complaints procedure.

You should explain to your local authority why you believe its decision is wrong. Let them have any evidence to support your case. Support from a disability group, medical or other professional, councillor or MP may help.

Eligibility Criteria Review in England

The Government in England has agreed to review the Blue Badge eligibility criteria that has until now made it very difficult for autistic people to get a Blue Badge if they do not have a physical disability. We welcome this review but do not know how long it will take.